Soulmate Swamp Milkweed

Light Needs

Full Sun

(At Least 6 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

3 Feet

Mature Spread

1 - 2 Feet

Growing Zones

3 to 8

Soulmate Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata 'Soulmate') is a pollinator’s paradise, featuring stunning clusters of cherry-pink flowers with white centers that bloom from midsummer to early fall. This upright perennial grows 3 to 4 feet tall and adds striking vertical interest to borders, rain gardens, and meadows. Beyond its beauty, this milkweed is a crucial host plant for monarch butterflies, supporting caterpillars and providing nectar to adult butterflies. Its sweet vanilla fragrance and low-maintenance care make it a standout choice for wildlife-friendly gardens.

Native to North America, Soulmate Swamp Milkweed thrives in moist, sunny habitats but adapts well to average garden soils, even tolerating clay. Its narrow, willow-like leaves form a lush backdrop for the bright blooms. Resistant to deer and rabbits, this versatile plant performs beautifully in water gardens, naturalized spaces, and pollinator borders. It also pairs well with companion plants like purple coneflower, bee balm, and black-eyed Susans for a dynamic, colorful display.

Soulmate Swamp Milkweed Care

Plant Soulmate Swamp Milkweed in full sun for the most robust flowering, though it can tolerate partial shade in hot climates. It prefers moist, well-drained soil but is adaptable to wetter areas, making it an excellent choice for rain gardens. Water regularly during the first growing season to establish deep roots. Once established, it tolerates periods of standing water or seasonal drought. Fertilize once annually with compost or a balanced fertilizer to encourage strong growth and abundant blooms.

Deadhead spent blooms throughout the summer to extend the flowering period. In early spring, cut back stems to just above the soil to remove old growth and encourage fresh shoots. Leave seed pods intact in the fall if you’d like the plant to reseed naturally or add interest to winter gardens. Harvest seed pods before they open if you plan to use them in dried arrangements.

Soulmate Swamp Milkweed Spacing

Space plants 24 to 36 inches apart in garden beds to provide ample room for airflow and growth. For mass plantings or pollinator meadows, spacing at 20 inches will create a denser appearance. In containers, choose a pot at least 14 inches wide to support the plant’s root system and tall, clump-forming habit.

Photo(s) by Teune at the English-language Wikipedia